These times we’re in are a challenge no matter what situation you find yourself in. Will you gain the victory in Chris Jesus? I’ve been reading James chapter 5, which gives some good tips on how to live the Christian life in these times. Let’s look!

Be Patient and Persevering

^{James 5:7} Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. ⁸ You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord ^[f]is at hand.

Be patient and establish your hearts…who/whom is your heart established in? None of us know the exact time for Jesus’ return, though we know we’re in the birth pangs which will bring the culmination of the years. We also know the Lord is at hand right at this moment and has been all these years.

⁹ Do not ^[g]grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be ^[h]condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!

This is quite clear! Have you caught yourself grumbling and complaining lately? I have; and needed to repent!

¹⁰ My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. ¹¹ Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

I am so glad we have these examples. Challenges in life may look different, but if we truly dig into the examples set forth from those who preceded us, the effects are no different. Choose wisely; I find the Holy Spirit leads my wisest choices.

¹² But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your “Yes” be “Yes,” and your “No,” “No,” lest you fall into ^[i]judgment.

This verse has been helpful in dealing with a couple people who can be tedious to communicate with on text or messaging; even on the phone! I find it easy to fall into vain arguments if I don’t follow this Scripture.

I have a question to end with. What do you/ have you done with the prophecies you’ve been given?

Prophecy is a major way God uses to speak to us. If you haven’t gotten a prophecy directly, the Bible is full of prophecies and promises you can claim. If God isn’t speaking to you, maybe you’re not listening. Another option is you have done nothing with what you’ve already gotten so He won’t give you more to work on. I leave you in the Lord’s hands of love, dear readers. Shalom!